Optimized benzaldehyde production over a new Co-ZSM-11 catalyst: Reaction parameters effects and kinetics

An efficient Co-ZSM-11 catalyst has been synthesized for benzaldehyde production by the selective styrene oxidation. Reaction parameters such as catalyst mass, reaction temperature, molar ratio styrene/hydrogen peroxide and stirring speed were optimized, by performing the styrene oxidation reaction in a stirred batch system with fine particles of Co-ZSM-11 in suspension under microwave heating. A kinetic study was done by using the initial rate method and the Arrhenius parameters were estimated. This catalyst presents a higher reaction rate about 30% with respect of those found in literature and a higher selectivity towards benzaldehyde about 80% at optimal conditions. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.